Mendel's

One of the other reviewers complained about some of the weird, little-used supplies that they carry, but I think that's one of their advantages. If I'm looking for a common supply it'll be pretty easy to find somewhere else, but it's good to know where to go when I need something offbeat. Last time I was here I got buckram and a lovely oilcloth remnant.
The prices for some things (like sewing machine needles) do seem rather steep.

Stay away!
Katie(from what I remember) at the front desk straight up lied about the return policy and when I actually went back to exchange the wrong item I bought (after she told me it was okay to exchange if it's not the right product). She completely flipped on me and said she's not going to return anything and that's the store policy.
Stay away from them very bad customer relations and they will scam you for every small thing they can.

Super great customer service, Lila helped me find everything I needed and was knowledgeable on the products. The fabric selection is absolutely amazing, a little pricey, but you can tell it is good quality. Will be coming back!

I usually go to this place when I'm around the area after class there's one gentleman usually at the registers really nice but there's a female staff member that makes the vibe inside uncomfortable following me around the store all the time, asking me if I needed help with anything I would've found this super normal up until I realized it was only me she was approaching and not the other guests idk it felt bias in my experience.

My girlfriend sent me to Mendel's to buy supplies for her. I unfortunately chose the wrong items and went to return them.
Naomi the owner stated firmly the store credit only policy while in the same breath admitted she has made exceptions.
Not today apparently. I tried to explain and patiently waited for her to accommodate my request. Naomi refused to help out, telling me she will not refund my money ($60.06). I asked to speak with someone else and her answer was, "the only person above me is God."
Terrible customer service. Very disappointed with Mendel's because I only shop local, and Mendel's was not very neighborly to me (and my girlfriend).

Don't shop here ~ Flax is better.

*update after being ignored by the entire staff, I went to shop my $60.06 credit then & there and just get past this unfortunate situation.

What happens next? An unsecured wall shelf fell onto me, banged my head & knocked my glasses clear off my head.

Naomi, the owner, reluctantly asked if I was OK, then mockingly asked if I wanted medical attention.

Lady Naomi, I'm seeing my doctor tomorrow afternoon because my head hasn't stopped throbbing from the impact of your unfasten shelf.

This isn't over. Forget that Mendel's actively practices poor customer service. The space is not safe. It's over crowded. Large wall displays are not secured to the wall. Even their aisle displays are haphazard obstacles.

Will update soon.

I went to Mendel's to purchase an assortment of different art supplies, in June 2023 which was amazing. My first time there and they had everything I was looking for and so much more. There were about 4 employees who couldn't have been more polite, patient, and very professional. The prices were extremely reasonable and ran the gamut from a few dollars to not much more. However, items such as fabric, art tools cost a bit more, and still not too bad. It is a one-stop art supply store for beginners and more advanced art enthusiasts! I will be back regularly.

Nicholas

The management of this place desperately needs to change. This used to be a fun store once! Unfortunately ever since new owner took over, it has been significant downwards spiral. Everyone who lives in the neighborhood knows this. I will not be coming back here. The prices are insane, lack of artist brands or any good quality products, no music of any-kind... is this really an art supply store?! Or a prison that feels like a twisted, greedy dollar store?
No repairs of any kind to the interior, you can see paint chipping on the walls and ceiling.The floors are old con-caved. There is no heating or conditioner. No wheelchair access to the back department. The space is hazardous for customers and employees. I'm surprised there aren't any legal issues, well perhaps just not yet.
I have no doubt that the positive reviews you encounter here for this store were paid for by the current owner.

I was pleasantly surprised with the wide variety of supplies this store carried! They had the basics but other things I hadn't seen before for different categories. They had really good prices too! There's definitely a variety with cost and supplies. The customer service was good too, they were kind and welcoming, didn't bother me much while I was shopping.

Good variety of art supplies and goodies. I stopped in twice recently and was helped super quick and found just what I was looking for. I'm not artsy or knowledgeable about the paint I was looking for and the recommendations were great.

Mendel's is nice and a craft store or variety store. It's on Haight Street and I had fun browsing because I don't visit that much. They have art supplies and gifts. I decided to get a craft art canvas mini at 5x5 for $1.90 with tax. It was a small purchase and it's fun to visit Mendel's San Francisco.

Mendel's a great place to shop for arts and crafts.
Amazing selection of fake fur and fabric.